Team Dr. Peter and the Scotiabank Charity Challenge

“I don’t run – I walk,” says Chris Cross with a boisterous laugh. For Chris, a volunteer at the Dr. Peter Centre, the Scotiabank Charity Challenge Half-Marathon & 5k is a chance to raise money for the Dr. Peter AIDS Foundation and to get out to Stanley Park for a little fresh air fitness.

“Last year I raised $1,000; this year I’m going to try to raise $1,250 – and walk a little faster!”

For Chris, the Scotiabank Charity Challenge is about a new way of giving. “Not everyone can afford to write a big cheque. The Charity Challenge is great because it lets everyone contribute at the level that’s right for them.”

For Chris, the Scotiabank Charity Challenge is a fantastic way to support a cause she feels so passionately about. “For me, it’s a cause that hits very close to home – Dr. Peter was my cousin.”

Dr. Peter Jepson-Young was a young, gay physician who was diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in 1986. When he became too sick to practice medicine, he worked to change the public’s perception of HIV/AIDS through a weekly diary series on CBC-TV. Weeks before he passed away in 1992, Dr. Peter established the Dr. Peter AIDS Foundation. Today, the Dr. Peter Centre provides support for over 350 Day Health Program participants and 24 live-in residents with highly specialized needs. All of the Centre’s clients are HIV-positive and many also struggle with issues of homelessness, poverty, mental health and addiction.

“That’s the biggest reason I support the Dr Peter Centre,” explains Chris. “HIV affects the most vulnerable people in our society – and the Centre helps them get back on their feet. They have good meals, excellent nurses, counselling, and art and music therapy – they have something for everyone.”

Thank you to everyone who supported Team Dr. Peter – if you are interested in participating in next year’s race, please contact us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .